Romantic Escapes: It doesn’t have to be Valentine’s Day to Celebrate Love

Chapter One

Aaron MacDonald tossed his phone onto his desk, leaned back in his chair, and swung around to the stunning view of the city skyline. Fuck! He hadn’t expected that call. Aaron was more upset with the idea of returning to Highland Bay, than the news of his father’s death. He’d built a successful life in Toronto. 

He contemplated which brother to call first. He had three to convince to return to a town they all swore they never would. Aaron figured he’d start from the bottom up. Blake, the youngest, had a successful dental practice in Fort Lauderdale. Unfortunately, he only spoke to Blake’s receptionist who promised to get him to call as soon as he could. Aaron scrolled through his numbers in search of the next brother. Prepared to reach Layne’s voice message, it shocked him to hear his brother answer.

Everything good?

Aaron sighed. The brothers were close, always had been, but his brother’s greeting only reminded him they should keep in touch more often.

I have bad news.

Blake–Donnan—

Aaron had to agree that his first concern would also be one of his brothers. Sad, but true; the Mac brothers hadn’t returned to their hometown, or kept in touch with their father.

It’s Dad. He’s passed.

Layne let out a sigh, as though in relief the news hadn’t been about Blake or Donnan. I’m sorry to say that the news doesn’t terribly affect me one way or the other. Aaron had said the same thing to Ron Wilson, a friend of their father’s and Highland Bay’s only lawyer.

Ron called. Guess Dad appointed me executor. I was hoping we could all meet there this weekend. He says we’re all mentioned in Dad’s will and the trip would be worthwhile.

He heard Layne clear his throat. Dad never owned anything worthwhile, except his father’s house. Just list the damn thing, or let it rot.

Aaron sighed. He’d commented pretty much the same to Ron. But then Ron mentioned their father’s inheritance from their grandfather wasn’t just the house. Curiosity hit him with that remark.

Ron says its more than the house. It’s been awhile since we’ve gotten together. 

He knew his brothers could never deny him anything. He’d been the glue that held them all together. He’d not only been their brother, but also their mom and dad. His mother left when him and his brothers were young. She never even said goodbye. His father, a drunken fisherman, only left Aaron to raise his three younger brothers. Aaron’s parents had moved to Highland Bay to raise their boys in a small town instead of the big city. But Aaron’s mom never liked it and left within months. Aaron assumed she went back to Toronto, but he never heard from her again. His grandfather was there for him and his brothers, until he passed the following year. Aaron’s childhood ended before he turned eleven. He left for Toronto in his early twenties, to make a life for himself. One by one, his brothers followed in his footsteps, and left the small seaside community. Each became successful and built their own lives, but promised to always be there for one another.

I can manage the weekend. It’d be great to see you all. Blake and Donnan have agreed?

On my call list. Aaron let Layne know he’d be in touch with the details.

Hills and bends along the shore road only brought back childhood memories. Ones he didn’t want to remember. After an hour’s drive from Halifax, Aaron saw the Welcome to Highland Bay sign. He didn’t remember it being such a scenic drive. Nestled in over the hillsides with craggy cliffs that overlooked the ocean, he noticed its beauty for the first time. He remembered the words his grandfather used to describe the small seaside town–a nature lover’s paradise. A man he’d only known for a short time. His grandmother passed before he was born; he only knew what his grandpa told him about her.

Aaron pulled into the gas station at the edge of town to grab a few supplies from its store.

Well, look here Stanley, it’s Bill MacDonald’s boy. I’m so sorry about your dad.

Aaron half-smiled at the woman behind the counter. Mrs. Stewart looked the same as he remembered, only her hair had grayed. Stanley Stewart came through the door from behind the counter. Aaron, sorry about your dad. Bill will be greatly missed.

Aaron nodded slightly, and then thanked the couple. He grabbed his supplies and made the excuse of being tired from his travels. Aaron wasn’t in the mood for gossip. For that’s all he remembered about the town. The reason he wanted out years before, and probably the reason his mother left. He blamed the town for her leaving, and grew to hate it.

Aaron felt something different as he drove through town. He’d never thought of it as charming. The breathtaking views of the seaside coast relaxed him. He turned off his air conditioning and opened the car window. He breathed in the fresh salty air as the ocean breeze filled his car. The town looked the same to him, but felt different.

He pulled into the gravel road that would take him home. A mile later, he spotted it. His grandfather’s old two-storey house nestled among the trees. Aaron always thought he hated the house, but as he parked in front of it, he couldn’t wait to get inside. He wondered why, it was just an old house with no one left to greet him. Aaron stepped up to the covered front porch. It needed some care, and a coat of paint. He chuckled at his thought to re-create something old with a modern touch. His successful construction business in Toronto allowed him to do just that.

He turned at the sound of a car’s horn. An old pick-up truck appeared through dust as it sped down the gravel road. Aaron lifted his shades, and smiled. He waved at the older man who climbed out of the truck.

Ron, Aaron called out to the familiar face.

Ron Wilson extended his hand. It’s good to see you, boy. He patted Aaron on the back as they walked toward the door.

Your dad always talked about you boys. When are your brothers due?

I’m sure he did, Aaron thought sarcastically.

They should all be here by tomorrow. It wasn’t easy to round them up to come here, he confessed. He looked around and remembered how his grandfather bragged about the sweet serenity of Highland Bay.

At least you’re an honest man. I know you boys never liked it here. But your grandfather’s dream may change that.

Intrigued by Ron’s comment, Aaron followed him inside. The screen door banged shut behind him. The sound of it brought back memories of all the times his brothers ran in and out of the house. The thought made him chuckle.

What dream was that?

Ron picked up an envelope from the kitchen table and waved it in the air. Have a seat Aaron. and let me tell you a story.

Oh, great! Aaron thought. He pulled out a chair and took a seat. Ron always had a story to tell.

Your father left strict orders. Ron opened the envelope. There’s to be no traditional funeral. He only wanted his four sons to return to Highland Bay to discover what their grandfather left them.

And then what Ron read from the will, shocked Aaron.

To my boys, I leave their grandfather’s house and property of ten acres. And, the one hundred acres of beachfront property with that abandoned lodge their grandfather never completed. Perhaps, Aaron, could finish the dream his grandfather began. If not, sell it boys and leave Highland Bay forever. I know you never liked it here.

Aaron laughed. He remembered his dad’s sarcastic dry humor.

Sounds like my dad. I never knew Grandpa constructed that.

Aaron remembered his grandpa’s tale of the old abandoned lodge a couple of miles down the beach. Surrounded by forest, it overlooked the ocean. His dad never spoke about it. But then again, he didn’t say much. Fishing and drinking were the only things he remembered his dad talking about. 

A dream that died with your grandfather. Ron then added, You inherited your grandfather’s talent for carpentry. Your dad believed you should be the one to carry out this dream. It has been sitting uncompleted, and falling apart for over thirty years now.

And Dad thought I’d want to finish it? Aaron brushed his hands over his five o’clock shadowed face. He figured the house was the only thing left. Like his brothers, he thought they’d sell it or let it rot. None of them had any desire to come back to Highland Bay.

Ron put the paper back in its envelope. He placed it on the table, and stood. Your dad loved you boys. Let me know what you decide. He patted Aaron on the shoulder.

Aaron sat quietly at the table. He heard the screen door slam shut. Curiosity got the best of him. He had to see the abandoned lodge.

Aaron drove along the shore road until the lodge appeared on the bank. Ron was right. It was falling apart. He parked at the end of the dirt road, and then hiked the rest of the way.

Magnificent, Aaron whispered. He stood in awe. His grandfather had the talent to design and create. He just didn’t have the money to complete it. Aaron had both. His mind wandered as he explored the lodge and the breathtaking ocean view. He knew he could make this into a luxurious resort. He just wondered if his brothers would feel the same way.

Chapter Two

Aaron waited on the front porch for his brothers. Their flights were close in arrival times and they’d planned to travel to Highland Bay together. He rehearsed what he’d say to them. Getting his brothers to uproot their lives and move back to the place they grew to hate, would be his hardest pitch. He thought he’d throw in memories of the good times they’d had as kids. He chuckled about the stick wars, potato guns, and sparkler bombs. The Mac boys made their mark in the small town. They had their differences, but if anyone said something about one of them, they’d be sporting a black eye.

He stood when he heard tires hit the gravel road. Within seconds, an SUV appeared through the dust. Aaron knew it must have been Blake who rented the SUV. The youngest had become the most sensible. A dentist in Florida, Aaron figured he’d be the hardest one to convince. Donnan had always been a playboy. He loved a good time, especially with the ladies. The playful adventurer would be his easiest to convince. That left Layne. He could never read his brother, the lawyer.

Donnan was the first to jump out of the SUV, faded blue jeans, a white T-shirt, and dark shades. He hadn’t changed. He pushed his shades to the top of his head.

Brother.

Aaron chuckled. Even Donnan’s tone yelled out he didn’t have a care in the world.

Hey Donnan, how was your flight?

Rocked. Flight attendants were quite attentive. Donnan winked.

Is there any woman you don’t flirt with? Always amused by his brother’s cocky attitude, sometimes Aaron wished he’d been more carefree like him. But being the oldest, he matured too fast, too soon. At least he’d been the same with the ladies. A confirmed bachelor that never spent more than two nights with the same woman. God love submissive women!

So many beautiful women, such little time.

Aaron nodded. He had to agree with that comment.

Some of us actually work. Layne stepped out next. His comment, Donnan completely ignored. Aaron knew they had their differences, but the strong bond between them made it work. Their grandfather said they were like old quilts–tend to unravel at times but can always be stitched back together.

Aaron opened the cooler. He’d filled it with Guinness. The one pleasure they all shared. Nothing better than a beer with my brothers.

Well, what else is there to do in this one-horse town? Donnan popped off the cap. Four bottles tapped in agreement, and then hit thirsty lips.

Well, there might be something else here to keep us busy. Aaron figured he’d break the ice and get to the point. His brothers were only expected to spend the weekend in Highland Bay. But it wasn’t just their grandfather’s house to sell.

A hike? Donnan suggested

Aaron smiled. Perfect idea. I want to show you what grandpa left us. He smiled at curious faces.

Hey man, I wasn’t serious about a fuckin’ hike.

Aaron rolled his eyes. We can take the SUV.

Blake followed Aaron’s directions along the old shore road and pulled into the dirt road slowly. The old abandoned lodge?

Grandpa left us this? I didn’t know he owned it. Layne opened the door and stepped out.

He did. I never knew he had built it until Ron read Dad’s letter. Aaron stood with his back to his brothers. Silence told him they were just as shocked.

What letter? Blake stepped up beside Aaron.

Aaron reached in his pocket, unfolded the piece of paper, and then read it to his brothers.

So, we own this piece of crap now? What the fuck are we supposed to do with it? Donnan threw his arms in the air. He looked around at his brothers.

Dad thinks we should finish it. What do you think? The Mac brothers open a beach resort.

Blake laughed. Now that’s funny. None of us live here and besides Aaron, who has any carpentry skills, or any skills to run a resort?

Aaron stood silent while he waited for everyone’s thoughts.

Blake’s mouth widened. Wait a minute. You want us to move back here to rebuild a dream we didn’t even know Grandpa had?

Aaron nodded.

Cool, Donnan said.

Aaron laughed. He knew he’d be the easiest to sell the idea to. Donnan was always up for a new adventure. Especially a beach resort that would bring more beautiful half-naked women to town. His brothers stood, staring at the old, run-down lodge. Aaron broke the silence.

We have to be in this together. We put our blood and sweat into the project or we sell the property and divvy up the profits. But think about it first. We could rebuild this old run-down building and make it a luxurious beach resort. Water sports, hiking trails...the possibilities are endless.

And how do you propose we afford to do that? Blake interrupted.

Separately we can’t, but together we can. Aaron reminded them they were the Mac brothers and nothing stopped them. He then reminded them he’d take care of the renovations through his company. But they all had to agree to move forward. He walked to the back of the SUV and opened the hatch. Aaron pulled four beers from the cooler. He passed them around and watched each one take a swig.

One by one, each brother agreed to a year in Highland Bay. If they couldn’t open for next summer, then they’d all go their separate ways. Four bottles tapped as if they’d signed on the dotted line.

Blake started the engine, and turned to Aaron in the passenger seat. But I have a thriving practice in Florida. You expect me to leave dentistry?

Aaron remembered what Ron told him. Almost forgot to mention that old Dr. MacLellan’s retiring. Highland Bay will need a dentist. Aaron turned to face Layne in the backseat. And Ron would like to retire soon. Aaron knew both brothers couldn’t just leave their careers behind. He had everything covered.

Donnan offered to barbeque that evening with Blake’s help. Layne had questions for Aaron about the property. You’re sensible when it comes to business, but does your company have adequate capital to take this on?

Aaron had already mulled it over. His company could cover most expenses, but he had investors he could contact to make it work. He assured his brother, financing wouldn’t be a problem.

Layne tipped the bottle back and then set it on the table. Depending on capital, financing, due diligence and determination of appropriateness for this project, you better have very good backing from the get-go. If not, you won’t be able to pay soft costs before construction, which will be anywhere from fifteen to twenty percent of the project.

Aaron turned to Layne. I’ve been in real estate development for a long time. I know how it works. Trust me, with the revenue streams from existing properties, and a few investors onboard; it can be done.

Layne sighed. Then what about hotel experience? We’re all limited in that department.

Aaron assured his brother he’d manage the resort and bring the right mix of experience they’d need. But, I also plan on hiring town residents. To win the town over, we have to promise jobs.

Layne leaned back in his chair. He lifted his feet to the rail of the porch. Then you also need to do your research on streets, zoning, traffic counts—

Aaron nodded. And that’s why I have you, brother. To remind me of everything.

Layne laughed, and tipped the bottle back to his lips.

Over steaks and beer, the Mac brothers discussed having meeting and banquet facilities, with a top-notch food and beverage operation, along with guest activities.

And a lobby bar. Donnan added a new twist to just having a regular lounge.

Aaron sat back and listened to his brothers discuss the endless possibilities. He smiled. His grandfather’s inheritance not only provided this opportunity, but had reunited four brothers.

Let’s make Donnan our Activities Director.

What the fuck is that?

Aaron laughed at Donnan’s reaction. Work with my marketing team. Research activities inside and outside, for all seasons. Help bring people in and entertain them. And, the lobby bar, you run it until we can hire a bartender. See Donnan, you do have talents.

Donnan smacked his brother on his arm, Smartass.

Layne spoke up over the brothers’ laughter. And, Blake and me?

Blake’s always been the most logical and organized. Aaron looked at Blake. "I need you